A project to preserve Warrington's iconic Golden Gates – which could cost more than £500,000 – has started.

The restoration scheme will see the Grade II* listed structure restored to its former glory.

It is believed the gates were originally intended as a gift for Queen Victoria before being purchased for the town by councillor Frederick Monks.

The previous refurbishment was carried out in 1978-79.

However, the council says the 'urban location' and proximity to a 'marine climate' have resulted in the gates showing signs of deterioration.

Having identified the need for repairs, the authority began work with international engineering, design and consultancy company, Ramboll, to identify the right conservators to carry out the specialist work.

Following a tender process, the council selected Hall Conservation – one of the UK's leading conservation firms – as the contractor.

Workers are currently at the site as the project to repair, enhance and preserve the gates gathers pace.

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Once the dismantling process is completed, they will be transported to Hall Conservation's workshop, where they will be fully inspected, in conjunction with Ramboll, and repaired and repainted before they return to Warrington.

It is planned that they will be reconstructed on site early next year.

Cllr Dan Price, executive board member for culture and partnerships, said: "The Golden Gates are an iconic symbol of Warrington.

"They are truly unique, with none others like them in the world.

"It's vital that we protect this key part of our cultural heritage - and that's why this work is so important.

"We are taking a conservation-based approach to ensure that the proposed work complies with national and local planning policy, as well as nationally recognised conservation guidance.

"This ensures that not only will the work not harm the gates but that it will preserve and enhance them, ensuring them many more years as a much-loved symbol of Warrington's civic pride."

Brian Hall, director of Hall Conservation, revealed he has a special link to the project.

He said: "Hall Conservation is honoured to be entrusted with the conservation of the Warrington Golden Gates.

"Not only are the gates a piece of important and vibrant local history, but they are also a unique part of England's very special ironwork heritage.

"The gates have a special significance for me because I grew up around the area of Coalbrookdale, a village in the Ironbridge Gorge in Shropshire, where these gates were made and were so brilliantly crafted by master founders over 150 years ago."